Taiwan's foreign ministry urged Japan and the Philippines to respect its rights and territory during upcoming talks on their maritime border. The statement was issued on Wednesday as the two countries prepare to negotiate exclusive economic zone boundaries.
Taiwan's foreign ministry said its representative offices in Japan and the Philippines would seek confirmation that any agreements will not affect Taiwan's sovereign rights under international law. The ministry described Taiwan's sovereignty over its territory and waters as indisputable.
The area under discussion overlaps with Taiwan's exclusive economic zone off its eastern coast. Japan and the Philippines announced last month they would begin formal talks on delimiting the boundary in accordance with international law.
Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said earlier on Wednesday that any agreement between Japan and the Philippines would not be legally binding on third parties. Taiwan's ministry also stated that China has no right to speak on its behalf regarding the maritime boundary issue.